Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

Many GPs practicing today have little or no formal undergraduate training in health care issues that are relevant to older people. This elective unit covers the following: social aspects of ageing, clinical aspects of ageing, functional independence, rehabilitation and promoting independence, psychogeriatrics, bladder and bowel problems, tiredness, anorexia and weight loss, breathlessness, turns, tumbles and tremors, painful conditions, hypertension, leg ulcers and pressure ulcers, institutional and nursing home care, latrogenesis, healthy ageing - health promotion and disease prevention and ethical issues.

Objectives

By the completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Promote the practice of geriatric medicine among GPs.
2. Improve the knowledge, skills and confidence of GPs in the care of the elderly.
3. Explain the aspects of care that are different for older people.
4. Interpret and assess information on the medical care of older people that is practical, concise and relevant to general practice.
5. Appreciate and acknowledge the interdisciplinary nature of gerontology and geriatric medicine and rehabilitation.
6. Describe the focus on community care, i.e. assessment of older people in their normal community environment, and the use of community resources as an integral part of their care.
7. Emphasise the importance of prevention and health maintenance in older people.
8. Present a positive model of geriatric practice.

Assessment

Journal activities (40%)
Audit 1 (20%)
Essay (20%)
Audit 2 (20%)

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Ian Chenoweth

Prohibitions

MFM1012